French Polynesia is an overseas collectivity of France situated on one thousand miles of ocean in the South Pacific, halfway between California and Australia (a mere eight-hour flight from Los Angeles). Encompassing over one hundred islands, French Polynesia is known for its sandy beaches, soaring waterfalls, rugged mountains, turquoise lagoons and over-the-water bungalows, which were invented here! Travelers seeking an exotic destination with a laid-back island vibe will be spoiled for choice when it comes to the destination’s ultra-luxury resorts.
InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa
- Vibe: Understated luxury
- Accommodations: 84 Overwater Villas including 10 villas with pools and 4 2-bedroom Brando Suites at the end of each pier
- Amenities: 3 restaurants, a cocktail bar, tennis courts, non-motorized water sports, an on-site Lagoonarium (which is home to more than 200 species of sea creatures) and French Polynesia’s first thalassotherapy (seawater therapy) spa including 14 treatments rooms, 24/7 fitness center, multiple saunas and outdoor Jacuzzis
- Good For: Couples seeking a romantic getaway or families who are more comfortable with a lagoon setting
Le Taha’a Island Resort & Spa
- Vibe: Rustic boutique, tropical and ultra-romantic
- Accommodations: 57 suites and villas, including overwater bungalows and beach villas, all with wraparound decks
- Amenities: 3 restaurants, 2 cocktail bars, tennis courts, volleyball and table tennis courts, kayaking, air-conditioned fitness center, a Tavai Spa, watersports (motorized and non-motorized), Scuba diving center, sailing, horseback riding and aquatic adventures
- Good For: Couples, especially Honeymooners who want to disconnect
Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora
- Vibe: Updated traditional luxury
- Accommodations: Assortment of overwater bungalows with varying views of the lagoon or overlooking the majestic Mount Otemanu. Beachfront Villa estates are perfect for families or groups
- Amenities: 4 restaurants, an award-winning spa, tennis courts, watersports (motorized and non-motorized), badminton, Scuba diving, windsurfing, beach volleyball, a yoga deck and fitness center
- Good For: Couples and families
InterContinental Moorea Resort & Spa
- Vibe: Contemporary style with touches of Polynesian tradition
- Accommodations: 140 guestrooms, suites and overwater bungalows, each with a private balcony or terrace. The layout and amenities of the guestrooms are the same, the only difference is the location and views
- Amenities: 3 restaurants, 2 bars, Complimentary watersports, TOPDive, Sea Turtle Sanctuary, ATV, Dolphin Experiences, Hèlène Spa and a 24/7 fitness center
- Good For: Families and couples seeking an adventurous getaway
The Brando
- Vibe: Eco-friendly luxury in an exclusive and private setting
- Accommodations: 30 stand-alone 1-bedroom villas measuring over 1,000 square feet, 4 2-bedroom villas and 1 3-bedroom villa. Each villa boasts its own private plunge pool, beach area, outdoor bathtub, outdoor seating and breakfast area
- Amenities: 3 restaurants, 2 bars, 24/7 fitness center, tennis courts, non-motorized water sports, birdwatching, boating, scuba diving, bicycling and Varua Polynesia Spa with multiple treatment rooms, saunas, cold plunge pools and a yoga hut
- Good For: Families and couples seeking an exotic, eco-friendly travel experience without having to sacrifice luxury
The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort
- Vibe: Ultra-luxe, large-scale, modern resort, romantic, family-friendly
- Accommodations: 90 luxurious villas and overwater bungalows, some with outdoor decks with a private Jacuzzi or a swimming pool, views of either the inner lagoon or the ocean and the breathtaking, Mount Otemanu
- Amenities: 4 restaurants, including the acclaimed restaurant Lagoon by Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten, 1 bar serving creative cordials and cocktails, motorized and non-motorized water sports, bicycles, Miri Miri Spa by Clarins, 24/7 fitness center fully equipped with TechnoGym machines, and 1 tennis court
- Good For: Couples and families